On the Road with Ignite: Discovering Hanwell
Last week, my colleague Ashleigh and I, hit the road to explore Hanwell, visiting local businesses, discovering hidden gems, and taking in the beautiful views along the way. It was a rainy day, but that didn’t dampen our curiosity or our enthusiasm for discovering more of this wonderful area.
A little kindness to start the day
Our first stop was Ren’s Pets in Fredericton, where we picked up supplies to donate to Saving Paws Animal Rescue, which recently welcomed some new kittens.
A big thank-you to the Saving Paws team for the care and dedication they put into helping these little ones find their furever homes!
If you’d like to support their work, mark your calendar for Saturday, October 31, when Ren’s Pets in Fredericton will host its monthly Nail Trim & Bake Sale Fundraiser. All funds raised will go directly to Saving Paws Cat Rescue.
Apple picking, country views, and a little something extra
The weather started to clear as we arrived at Everett Family Orchard. It was just a few days before the end of the U-pick apple season, so we were happy to get our hands on some Honeycrisp apples, a delicious apple pie, and pumpkin cookies.
The orchard is a wonderful place to spend a day outdoors, with beautiful views and something for everyone. Families can enjoy the toys and little rides for children, while visitors can take their time picking apples and exploring the cozy farm store. Chuck and Wyn make you feel welcome, adding a personal touch to the experience.
Although the U-pick season has now wrapped up, you can still order frozen apple pies by appointment.
There was also something new to discover this year: Front Porch Finds, a charming spot filled with antiques and collectibles that's worth checking out.
Thank you, Chuck and Wyn, for welcoming us and sharing a little piece of orchard life with us!
Comfort food to finish the day
After a morning of exploring and apple picking, our final stop was Ivy’s Diner, a cozy, family-friendly restaurant serving comfort food with great service.
It was just what we needed to wrap up our day. We settled in for a hearty brunch of a club sandwich with poutine and a hot turkey sandwich with fries. After a morning out in the fresh air, it was the perfect way to recharge and reflect on the day’s adventures.
Every stop tells a story
Our trip through Hanwell and the surrounding communities was a reminder that discovering a place is about more than the scenery. It’s about the people who care for animals, the families who welcome visitors to their orchards, and the local businesses that bring people together around a good meal.
Even on a rainy day, there was so much to discover, and every stop gave us another reason to appreciate what makes this area special.
Sometimes, all it takes is a day on the road to discover the people, places, and stories that make a community feel like home.